The District Administration Rajouri, in collaboration with the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), organised an awareness-cum-debate competition to mobilize students for a decisive anti-Drug Campaign in the district. Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma was the Chief Guest.
Addressing the students, the DC emphasised the importance of spreading awareness in society and urged the participants to actively engage with their parents, teachers and peers. He advised students to openly communicate in case of stress or any mental health concerns.
He underscored the need to identify vulnerable students at an early stage for timely intervention. Highlighting the significance of such initiatives, the DC stated that awareness programmes play a vital role in preventing drug abuse. He further informed that enforcement activities are also being intensified in identified hotspot areas and added that selected officials would be trained as counsellors to further propagate the message of awareness at the grassroots level.
Dr. Parvaiz Alam from GMC Rajouri delivered an informative lecture highlighting the basics of drug addiction, its adverse impact on physical and mental health and the role of rehabilitation centres in recovery and reintegration. Other speakers from the Health Department also shared valuable insights on prevention strategies, counseling and community-based support mechanisms.
Students from different educational institutions actively participated in the debate competition, articulating their views with clarity and conviction. The participants were felicitated in recognition of their enthusiastic participation and commendable presentations.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks presented by the District Information Officer, Ashiq Rafiq Malik. He expressed gratitude to the guests, speakers, students and all the stakeholders for making the event a success.
Among others present on the occasion included DSWO Abdul Raheem; Chief Education Officer Mohammad Hafeez; A.P GMC Rajouri Dr. Parvaiz Alam; Principal Boys Model HSS Muslim Wani; Principal Girls HSS Gulzar Ahmed; Lecturer Dr. Tariq Aziz; Teacher Vikrant Sharma, besides other district and sectoral officers.